ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Front End Loader Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Osage Cooperative Elevator

Seasonal Help

Osage, IA · On-site

$12.25 - $14.75/hr

Openings include Front-End loader operator for our dry plant, hopper bottom driver, or dry fertilizer tender driver. Experience driving semi-trucks or front-end loaders is required. This is a ...

Henningsen Construction, Inc.

Loader Operator

Atlantic, IA

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Henningsen Const., Inc. is seeking a motivated loader operator for our portable asphalt plant. Most work consists of working at the Asphalt Plants stockpiling materials. Some heavy lifting is ...

Henningsen Construction, Inc.

Loader Operator

Atlantic, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Henningsen Const., Inc. is seeking a motivated loader operator for our portable asphalt plant. Most work consists of working at the Asphalt Plants stockpiling materials. Some heavy lifting is ...

BARD Materials

Aggregate Production Operator III

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Operate a front-end loader to load aggregate materials into trucks, hoppers, and stockpiles as directed * Utilize equipment in a manner that maximizes productivity and minimizes downtime * Perform ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFront End Loader JobsFront End Loader Jobs in Iowa

Front End Loader information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$18

$26

How much do front end loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for front end loader in Iowa is $18.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $21.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Front End Loader, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Front End Loader operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent, sometimes with specific equipment certification. Familiarity with machine controls, basic maintenance tools, and computerized systems used for diagnostics is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work well in a team are crucial soft skills for this position. These abilities ensure safe, efficient, and precise operation, minimizing workplace accidents and maximizing productivity on job sites.

What are some common challenges faced by Front End Loader operators and how can they be managed on the job?

Front End Loader operators often encounter challenges such as working in tight spaces, handling uneven terrain, and ensuring safety around other heavy equipment and personnel. Effective communication with team members and adherence to site safety protocols are crucial for preventing accidents. Regular maintenance checks on the loader can also help prevent unexpected breakdowns, and ongoing training ensures operators stay up-to-date with best practices for efficient and safe operation. Being proactive and vigilant helps operators manage these challenges successfully.

How much does a front-end loader operator earn?

Front-end loader operators typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $40,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment may earn higher wages and additional benefits.

What is the highest paid heavy equipment operator job?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators are often those who specialize in operating large machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, or excavators in industries like oil and gas, mining, or construction. Experienced operators with specialized skills, certifications, and working in remote or high-risk environments tend to earn the highest wages, which can exceed $70,000 to $100,000 annually depending on location and experience.

Do you need a CDL to operate a front loader?

Typically, a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is not required to operate a front end loader, as it is a construction equipment operator role that usually requires specific training and certification in operating heavy machinery. However, some employers or jurisdictions may have different requirements, so it's important to check local regulations and employer policies. Operating a front loader often involves safety training and knowledge of equipment controls and maintenance.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Front end loader operators can earn around $700 a day, especially with experience, overtime, or working in high-demand industries like construction or mining. These roles often require specialized skills, certifications, and physical stamina, and pay varies based on location and project complexity.

What are Front End Loaders?

Front End Loaders, also known as front loaders or wheel loaders, are heavy equipment machines used primarily in construction, agriculture, and other industries to move or load materials such as soil, gravel, sand, or debris. They feature a large bucket mounted at the front, which can be raised, lowered, and tilted to scoop and transport materials. Operators use front end loaders for tasks like loading trucks, clearing rubble, and leveling ground. These machines are valued for their versatility, efficiency, and ability to handle a wide variety of tasks on job sites.

What is the difference between Front End Loader vs Backhoe Operator?

AspectFront End LoaderBackhoe Operator
Primary EquipmentLoader bucket for loading and moving materialsBackhoe for digging and trenching
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, agricultureConstruction, utility work, excavation
CertificationsOperator licenses, safety trainingOperator licenses, safety training
Common UsageLoading materials, stockpilingDigging trenches, excavations

While both Front End Loaders and Backhoe Operators work in construction and excavation, the main difference lies in their equipment and tasks. Front End Loaders are primarily used for loading and moving materials with a large bucket, whereas Backhoe Operators focus on digging and trenching with a backhoe attachment. Both roles require similar certifications and safety training, but their functions and equipment differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Front End Loader jobs in Iowa? For Front End Loader jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Front End Loader jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Front End Loader jobs in Iowa are:
Front End Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Front End Loader job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,686 per year, or $18.6 per hour.
Loader Operator - Portable Asphalt Plant (Seasonal, Statewide Travel)

Loader Operator - Portable Asphalt Plant (Seasonal, Statewide Travel)

Manatt's

Newton, IA

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago

Manatt's rating

4.9

Company rating: 4.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Summary

Operates rubber tired tractor type vehicle equipped with front mounted hydraulically powered bucket or scoop to lift and transport bulk materials to and from storage or processing areas, to feed conveyors, hoppers, or chutes, and to load trucks.

Essential Responsibilities

The requirements represent the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required to fulfill position expectations. This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other duties as needed to meet the organization's ongoing needs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Additional or other duties may be assigned.

FAMILY
  • Serves as a standard bearer for Manatt's mission to safely do everything we do better than anyone else and purpose of building legacies through standards of excellence.
  • Promotes, lives, and exemplifies Manatt's values: Family, Excellence and Human Potential.
EXCELLENCE
  • Inspects and maintains loader equipment such as tires, lights, back-up alarm, brakes, fuel (diesel), oil, water and all other fluids levels.
  • Charges plant with raw materials using wheel loader pursuant to plant output expectations.
  • Fastens seatbelt, starts engine, turns on lights, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader.
  • Moves levers to lower and tilt bucket and drives front-end loader forward to force bucket into bulk material.
  • Moves levers to raise and tilt bucket when filled, drives vehicle to work site, and moves levers to dump material.
  • Cleans windows, mirrors, removes garbage, and maintains interior of loader in good working condition.
  • Performs preventative maintenance service and minor repairs on loader.
  • Assists in maintenance of clean and debris free plant site including but not limited to collection and removal of garbage and security in yard.
  • Assists with production of poured blocks including removal of forms and placing in assigned inventory location.
  • Reports to supervisor at end of each day to leave time card, fuel receipts/usage, mileage, and other information as well as receive instruction for next days work assignments.
  • Secondary functions of general laborer or other duties may be assigned.
  • Operates front-end loader in safe manner and abides with traffic laws, rules, and regulations, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) rules and regulations and company rules and safety policies.
HUMAN POTENTIAL
  • Commits to continuous personal improvements on the path towards being best self.
  • Teach others to learn what you know to help them grow.
Qualifications

Education and Experience

  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Previous loader operator experience required.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

  • Must have a valid driver's license and a vehicle to get to the job site required, CDL preferred.

Other Qualifications

  • Acceptable driving record
  • Excellent work ethic.
  • Ability to work long hours, including weekends during peak season.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced outdoor and in industrial environments.
  • Ability to work seasonally.  
Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to listen. The employee frequently is required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to walk; sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 100 pounds with assistance. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

What We Offer
  • Competitive seasonal wages.
  • Daily per diem for travel.
  • Opportunities for overtime.
  • A supportive team culture and opportunities to grow within Manatts.

About Us

Founded in 1947 and headquartered in Brooklyn, Iowa, Manatt's is a leader in Iowa's heavy highway construction and materials industry. We specialize in asphalt, concrete, and chipseal coating, with additional expertise in recycle crushing, stabilization, milling, grinding, subdrain installation, and more.

At Manatt's, we have the experts, equipment, resources, and top-quality materials needed to safely and efficiently complete any project. Our integrated approach and unwavering commitment to building exceptional relationships allow us to deliver uncompromising quality and construction services. Our mission is to continually set and reset the standard by which all other construction material companies are measured. We don't just build infrastructure; we build legacies through higher standards of work and a dedication to excellence in everything we do.

What Manatt's employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply